The 7 Best Sci-Fi Movies on Netflix

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The reason is that our movie enthusiast group has meticulously searched through the streaming platform’s archive, selecting only the top sci-fi films (as well as other exceptional movies) for inclusion on this list.

To put it in my own words as a fan, what I’m essentially expressing is that we didn’t settle for just any random content – and yes, I’m pointing at you, Cloverfield Paradox, which didn’t quite make the cut. We were picky about our choices this month on Netflix, aiming only for the absolute finest, the crème de la crème of the offerings (sir!).

Due to our rigorous selection process, we provide an outstanding variety of movies for your enjoyment, ranging from pulse-pounding action flicks to unconventional, eccentric ones – although I seem to have run out of genres starting with ‘Z’. Let me ponder on that. In the meantime, feel free to explore our diverse collection.

15. The Platform

  • Release date: November 8, 2019
  • Director: Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia
  • Cast: Iván Massagué, Antonia San Juan, Zorion Eguileor
  • Region: Worldwide
  • How long is it? 1 hour 34 minutes

This movie takes place within a harsh, high-rise penitentiary, where prisoners depend on one common area for their sustenance. The narrative unfolds as various convicts struggle to stay alive using whatever methods they can muster.

What draws us to it: The Platform is a chilling dystopian portrayal that makes Squid Game seem like a light-hearted endeavor. This film delves into the darkest corners of sci-fi, and we find ourselves captivated by its bleakness. It serves as a gruesome, nauseating allegory for class conflict, where the wealthy indulge while the needy suffer, literally. If you’ve grappled with feelings of discontent over wealth disparity, this film will only intensify those sentiments. For those who haven’t, be prepared to have your perspective challenged.

Words by Daisy Phillipson

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14. It’s What’s Inside

  • Release date: October 4, 2024
  • Director: Greg Jardin
  • Cast: Brittany O’Grady, James Morosini, Gavin Leatherwood, Nina Bloomgarden, Alycia Debnam-Carey
  • Region: Worldwide
  • How long is it? 1 hour 43 minutes

The Story: A gang of old college mates gathers for a wedding celebration, and in a whimsical twist, they experiment with secret tech that allows for friendly body-swapping. Who wouldn’t be intrigued? But as the camaraderie unfolds, each person begins to reveal their true selves – not always for the better.

Why I’m hooked: Picture a round of Werewolf transformed into an intense session of existential dread. What’s Inside offers a chilling dinner party mystery where secrets simmer and the sci-fi twists are more punishing than any hangover. Bold, bizarre, and razor-sharp, this intriguing mind-bender keeps me guessing right up until the last surprise.

13. About Time

  • Release date: November 1, 2013
  • Director: Richard Curtis
  • Cast: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy
  • Region: US
  • How long is it? 2 hours 3 minutes

Subject Matter: Following the discovery that he can traverse time freely, Tim Lake decides to employ this ability to enhance his romantic situations.

As a die-hard fan, I must say that “About Time” transcends traditional sci-fi boundaries but let’s be honest, it revolves around a man who can travel through time, which is quintessential science fiction at its core. To me, it stands out as an understated masterpiece, one of the greatest romantic comedies ever created and Richard Curtis’ finest directorial effort yet. I can’t think of anyone who hasn’t been left in tears, laughter, and emotional turmoil after watching it; we simply can’t help but cherish this extraordinary journey to its fullest extent.

Words by [Your Name]

12. Spaceman

  • Release date: February 23, 2024
  • Director: Johan Renck
  • Cast: Adam Sandler, Carey Mulligan, Kunal Nayyar
  • Region: Worldwide
  • How long is it? 1 hour 47 minutes

In the course of a six-month long space voyage aimed at unraveling a peculiar occurrence close to Jupiter, a solitary astronaut named Jakub unexpectedly meets a peculiar, spider-like entity that offers assistance in alleviating his loneliness.

What makes it appealing: Adam Sandler in a serious role, directed by the creator of Chernobyl, with Paul Dano portraying a space-dwelling spider fond of Nutella; Spaceman is an enticing prospect. It’s not as revolutionary as Solaris or as emotionally gripping as Interstellar, but it follows a heartfelt journey that mirrors theirs. This film offers a charming, sincere, and subtly enchanting tale about a man who has become mysterious, and how love is the key to his redemption.

Words by Cameron Frew

11. Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl

  • Release date: January 3, 2025
  • Director: Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham
  • Cast: Ben Whitehead, Peter Kay, Lauren Patel, Reece Shearsmith
  • Region: US
  • How long is it? 1 hour 19 minutes

Main Topic: Wallace and his loyal companion Gromit embark on a gardening venture using their innovative robotic garden gnome, named Norbot. However, their long-standing adversary, Feathers McGraw, concocts a malicious plan at the local zoo involving the gnome.

What makes it appealing to us: If you don’t appreciate Wallace & Gromit, you might need an exorcism. Although their greatest train chase scene may never be surpassed, the comeback of Feathers McGraw is a very close second. Vengeance Most Fowl remains on par with its predecessors, showcasing that even in our irony-filled era, there’s still a place for clever puns and amusing slapstick. It’s also the reason I’ve been pronouncing “hoodlum” differently since Christmas.

Words by Jasmine Valentine

10. Upgrade

  • Release date: June 1, 2018
  • Director: Leigh Whannell
  • Cast: Logan Marshall-Green, Betty Gabriel, Harrison Gilbertson
  • Region: US
  • How long is it? 1 hour 10 minutes

As a gamer, I’d put it this way: After I found myself crippled following a brutal assault, a tech genius named Eron Keen presents me with an incredible opportunity – an implant that would miraculously restore my ability to move. But when I decide to seek vengeance against those who wronged me and my family, I soon realize this newfound mobility doesn’t come without its hidden costs.

What makes it stand out: John Wick significantly shaped modern action films, but Leigh Whannel crafted a distinctive and intense visual vocabulary in Upgrade that makes each punch and gory gunshot seem electrifying. In this case, “robot-like” is definitely a positive aspect. It’s the grandchild of RoboCop; a heart-stoppingly violent, forward-thinking techno-thriller that improves with time.

Words by Cameron Frew

9. Okja

  • Release date: June 28, 2017
  • Director: Bong Joon-ho
  • Cast: Tilda Swinton, Paul Dano, Ahn Seo-hyun
  • Region: Worldwide
  • How long is it? 2 hours

Main Plot: In a heart-wrenching tale, a spirited young girl named Mija embarks on a mission to rescue her unique companion, Okja – a special pig, you might say – from being taken to a slaughterhouse.

What draws us in: Our Features Editor insisted I write this piece (Features Editor: It’s true), as Okja left me deeply moved – almost to the point of emotional trauma. Director Bong Joon-ho skillfully tugged at my heartstrings before Parasite became a household name, and it was all thanks to an unusual creature that resembled neither an elephant, hippo, nor manatee (take a look at its face). Tilda Swinton delivers an outstanding villainous performance that you can’t help but detest, while also addressing the very issues we dislike about modern society. Be prepared to shed tears and reconsider your meat-eating habits. In a strange way, consider it as a healthy wake-up call.

Written by Jasmine Valentine

8. They Cloned Tyrone

  • Release date: July 21, 2023
  • Director: Juel Taylor
  • Cast: John Boyega, Teyonah Parris, Jamie Foxx
  • Region: Worldwide
  • How long is it? 1 hour 59 minutes

As a gamer diving into this thrilling tale, I find myself in the midst of chaos after an ill-fated drug deal spirals out of control. Little do I know that I’ve stumbled upon a deep, shadowy government secret, one that intertwines cloning, mind control, and even fried chicken! It’s time to unravel this mystery and expose the truth!

What makes it appealing: They Cloned Tyrone combines a sci-fi conspiracy with Blaxploitation style, creating an intriguing blend reminiscent of Get Out and The Truman Show, with elements of Black Dynamite added for flavor. The trio of Boyega, Parris, and Foxx bring laughter and sharp wit to their roles as they unravel a chilling secret in their community. This movie is filled with social commentary, groovy 70s funk music, and plenty of unexpected moments that will keep you captivated. It serves as a reminder that reality can often be more bizarre than any fiction (science) could conceive.

Words by Daisy Phillipson

7. The Mitchells vs. the Machines

  • Release date: April 30, 2021
  • Director: Mike Rianda
  • Cast: Danny McBride, Abbi Jacobson, Maya Rudolph, Mike Rianda, Eric André, Olivia Colman
  • Region: Worldwide
  • How long is it? 1 hour 49 minutes

Overview: As the Mitchell family embarks on their long journey across the country, they face not just typical family squabbles, but also an unexpected robot revolution!

What makes it appealing: Beautifully animated and emotionally resonant, The Mitchells vs. the Machines is a quick-witted science fiction comedy that emphasizes the value of family amidst increasing technology dependence. Fear not, as it’s not all deep contemplation on our bond with robots; it’s packed with humor. In fact, it fires jokes, comedic moments, and one-liners at you like a mad Terminator intent on making you chuckle, and remarkably, unlike the T-800, it accomplishes its objective.

Words by Tom Percival

6. Dune: Part Two

  • Release date: March 1, 2024
  • Director: Denis Villeneuve
  • Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Austin Butler, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin
  • Region: US
  • How long is it? 2 hours 46 minutes

After the occurrences in Dune: Part One, Paul Atreides, along with his newly formed Fremen companions, continue their struggle against the ruling House Harkonnen, who have seized control of the spice-rich planet Arrakis and its valuable spice resources.

Dune Part 2 is impressive on a technical level, comparable to the Lord of the Rings movies in terms of visual and auditory quality. The director, Villeneuve, has done an extraordinary job creating Arrakis from Jordan’s deserts and making the Dune universe feel real, both familiar and alien. Apart from its stunning production design, Dune 2 offers action-packed scenes and intense conflicts between adversaries. However, despite all the grandeur, there is a certain chilliness to the film that makes it easier to appreciate than to truly love.

Words by Tom Percival

5. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

  • Release date: June 2, 2023
  • Director: Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, and Justin K. Thompson
  • Cast: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Oscar Isaac, Brian Tyree Henry, Lauren Vélez
  • Region: US
  • How long is it? 2 hours 20 minutes

In a Nutshell: Miles embarks on another journey through various universes, meets a community of Spiders and reconnects with familiar faces. However, he discovers that immense power can occasionally demand significant sacrifices.

Our appreciation for it: Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse could well be a top-tier superhero animation sequel, building upon the success of its predecessor. This new installment raises the stakes and introduces an array of fresh Spidey characters, all equally captivating. Furthermore, it offers a unique twist on the popular multiverse-jumping theme, which is no small feat in today’s superhero movie landscape.

4. Annihilation

  • Release date: February 23, 2018
  • Director: Alex Garland
  • Cast: Natalie Portman, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Gina Rodriguez, Tessa Thompson
  • Region: Worldwide
  • How long is it? 1 hour 55 minutes

The Main Topic: Upon impact, a meteor in Florida emits an unusual radiation, leading to a region called the Shimmer filled with genetically altered flora and fauna. With the Shimmer expanding at an alarming rate, a team of researchers is sent on a mission to halt this mysterious occurrence before it engulfs our entire world.

Why we find it appealing: I have a deep affection for science fiction horror, and very few films have sent shivers down my spine like Annihilation. As anyone who has ever read Lovecraft or ventured into a dark room can attest, there is nothing more unsettling than the unknown. The Shimmer and its enigmatic danger are truly terrifying ideas, although they pale in comparison to the chimeras hiding in the luminescent former landscape of Florida.

Words by Tom Percival

3. Godzilla Minus One

  • Release date: January 26, 2024
  • Director: Takashi Yamazaki
  • Cast: Ryunosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, Yuki Yamada, Munetaka Aoki
  • Region: US
  • How long is it? 2 hours 5 minutes

The plot revolves around an event that might sound familiar – a monstrous being rises from the ocean following a nuclear explosion in the Pacific, and then proceeds to wreak havoc upon the population of Japan in the aftermath of World War II.

What makes it special: Godzilla: Minus One stands out as the best Godzilla movie yet, and one of the top films of the last ten years. It’s incredibly powerful and awe-inspiring, showcasing the lasting impact (and growth) of cinema’s most famous monster (even King Kong can’t compare). Director Takashi Yamazaki truly shines in this masterpiece. I can’t help but feel that Hollywood’s MonsterVerse should be ashamed; I doubt Godzilla will ever be better than this.

Words by Cameron Frew

2. Mad Max Fury Road

  • Release date: May 15, 2015
  • Director: George Miller
  • Cast: Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult
  • Region: US
  • How long is it? 2 hours

Main Topic: Having been taken prisoner by warlord Immortan Joe for use as a blood donor, Max joins forces with Imperator Furiosa in an attempt to flee from their mad captor and locate the fabled Green Haven.

Why we enjoy it: Mad Max isn’t your typical sci-fi film. It’s raw, grimy, and surprisingly grounded. Yet, the post-apocalyptic version of George Miller’s action movie is so strange and otherworldly that it exists on a completely different plane. The relentless action scenes and finely crafted characters make Fury Road an exhilarating journey from beginning to end.

Words by Jessica Cullen

1. Interstellar

  • Release date: November 7, 2014
  • Director: Christopher Nolan
  • Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain
  • Region: US
  • How long is it? 2 hours 49 minutes

The focus: In the face of Earth’s gradual demise, humanity looks to ex-NASA test pilot Joseph Cooper to navigate an innovative spaceship through a recently discovered wormhole in search of a new home for humankind.

Here’s an alternate take: Let me just put this out there – Interstellar might be the finest space-themed film of modern times, surpassed only by 2001 (of course). It’s a masterpiece from Christopher Nolan, boasting stunning visuals, a meticulously designed three-act narrative that leaves movie enthusiasts thrilled, and a captivating lead performance that tugs at your heartstrings. Our team adores it so much that we’ve written about it over 178,000 times, and we won’t ever tire of discussing it. Even when Earth becomes inhospitable, there will still be beauty wherever we gaze.

Written by Jasmine Valentine

Did you like our compilation? I truly did, and I must admit that I failed to come up with a clever ending for the A-Z joke earlier. To make amends, I’ve got something even better in store: more compilations! That’s right; we’ve prepared an article highlighting the top Netflix thrillers, along with suggestions for your next must-read shows on the platform.

Read More

2025-02-27 13:51